Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli

Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping. Juicy, well-seasoned chicken pieces and crisp-tender broccoli come together in under 30 minutes using minimal oil. This healthy, protein-packed recipe delivers all the satisfaction of stir-fry with the ease and convenience of the air fryer.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

boneless skinless chicken breast or thighscornstarcholive oilsoy saucesesame oilgarlic powderonion powderblack peppersaltbroccolired pepper flakes (optional)

directions

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and place in a bowl.

Add cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Toss until chicken is evenly coated.

Drizzle with soy sauce, sesame oil, and a bit of olive oil. Mix well and let marinate for 10 minutes if time allows.

Cut broccoli into small florets. Toss with a little olive oil and a pinch of salt.

Place chicken bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway through.

Add broccoli to the basket with the chicken and cook for an additional 6-8 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and broccoli is crisp-tender.

Sprinkle with red pepper flakes if desired and serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 3-4 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesMarinating time: 10 minutes (optional)Air frying time: 14-18 minutesTotal time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

Use teriyaki or honey garlic sauce for a different flavor profile.

Add bell peppers, onions, or snap peas for a veggie mix.

Swap chicken for tofu for a vegetarian version.

Top with sesame seeds or chopped green onions for added texture.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes or microwave until heated through.For best texture, avoid freezing the broccoli once cooked.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, but it may release more moisture. Thaw and pat dry before air frying.

What if I don’t have sesame oil?

You can omit it or replace it with more olive oil or avocado oil.

Can I skip the cornstarch?

Cornstarch helps create a crispy coating. You can skip it, but the texture will be softer.

Can I cook the broccoli separately?

Yes, if you prefer it less crispy or want more control over texture, air fry separately for 6-8 minutes.

Is this recipe low-carb?

Yes, it is low in carbs and high in protein, making it suitable for keto and low-carb diets.

Can I make this spicy?

Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for extra heat.

What type of chicken works best?

Both breast and thigh meat work well—thighs are juicier, while breasts are leaner.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer.

Do I need to preheat the air fryer?

Preheating is recommended for even cooking and best texture.

Can I use a different vegetable?

Absolutely—cauliflower, zucchini, or green beans are great alternatives.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Chicken Bites and Broccoli is a fast, flavorful, and nutritious meal that fits into busy schedules without sacrificing taste. With minimal prep and easy clean-up, it’s a go-to option for healthy lunches or dinners. Customize it to your taste and enjoy a crispy, savory dish in minutes.

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